analogy

[əˈnælədʒi]

analogy Definition

a comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.

Using analogy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "analogy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    An analogy is often used to explain a complex idea in simpler terms.

  • Example

    The relationship between a cell and its nucleus can be explained using an analogy to a city and its government.

  • Example

    Just as a hammer is a tool for a carpenter, a paintbrush is a tool for an artist - this is an analogy for understanding the relationship between different professions.

analogy Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with analogy

  • draw/make an analogy

    to compare two things in order to explain something

    Example

    He drew an analogy between the human heart and a pump to explain how blood circulates through the body.

  • an argument based on misleading, superficial, or implausible comparisons

    Example

    Comparing the human brain to a computer is a false analogy because the two are fundamentally different in how they process information.

  • similar to or in line with something else

    Example

    The relationship between a teacher and student is analogous to that of a guide and traveler.

Origins of analogy

from Greek 'analogia', meaning 'proportion'

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Summary: analogy in Brief

An 'analogy' [əˈnælədʒi] is a comparison between two things, often used to explain or clarify complex ideas. It can be used to draw similarities between different professions, concepts, or objects. Phrases like 'draw/make an analogy' and 'false analogy' use 'analogy' to describe the act of comparing two things, while 'analogous to' denotes similarity or alignment with something else.